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Building Inspection

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1. How do I get a Certificate of Occupancy?

A Certificate of Occupancy requires inspections from various departments depending on the nature of the Occupant. Inspections will be scheduled and handled by the proper departments. Once inspections are done and everything is up to code, then a Certificate of Occupancy will be issued. Usually for new construction only.

2. Why do I need a permit?

The best way to find out if you need a permit is to contact Building Inspection. Discuss your plans with them before you begin work. If a permit is not needed the building inspector can answer your construction questions and may provide valuable advice.

3. What is a building permit?

A building permit gives you legal right to start construction of a project in accordance with approved drawings and specifications.

4. As a homeowner, may I get a permit to do my own building, plumbing, mechanical and electrical work?

• Yes, homeowner permits for building.Must be your primary residence. You may do some maintenance and repairs without building permits as long as it does not include structural work or the construction or removal of ANY walls or partitions. Cosmetic changes, such as painting or carpeting, do not require a permit. However, such work still must comply with applicable codes dealing with fire safety and other safety issues.
• No, homeowner permits for mechanical.
• Yes, homeowner permits for electric and plumbing. You can take homeowners test for electric or plumbing.

5. May I start construction before I receive a permit?

No. 

A permit must be issued prior to the commencement of work. If construction is started prior to the issuance the contractor or homeowner is subject to civil fines and other penalties.

6. Who do I contact to check if a contractor is licensed?

https://public.psiexams.com/index_login.jsp

7. Do I need a City of Farmington business license to do building code work in Farmington?

Yes. 

http://www.fmtn.org/140/Business-Registration

8. How long is a building permit valid?

Building permits are issued on and valid for 2 years from the date of issuance. If no work begins 180 days, your permit is no longer valid. If a building permit expires, a new permit and applicable fees will be required for renewal. A plan check fee may also be required.

9. Do I sign up my commercial or home alarm?

http://www.fmtn.org/514/Records-Evidence

Yes. You may register your alarm with police department. The application is available online. 

10. Can I replace the curb gutter and sidewalk in front of my house?

No. 

A street cut permit is required. 

11. Can I pull a homeowners permit, to build my own house?

Yes.

Documents to submit: 

1. 2- full-size plans of construction drawing, including the site plan. 

2. Energy checklist 

3. Manual J Calculation Worksheet 

Call our office to speak with one of our Building Inspectors (505)599-1304 for further questions.

12. Can I replace my water or sewer yard line?

Yes. 

Homeowners may pull permits, primary residence. Although you can not go out into the street, a licensed contractor qualifies.

13. Are plumbing permits required for home irrigation systems, landscaping sprinkler system?

Yes. Homeowners may pull permits, primary residence.

14. Can I apply for a homeowners permit?

Yes. Must be your primary residence.

15. What are the Design Criteria for the City of Farmington?

Minimum roof live load – 20 psf 

Basic Wind Speed (3-second Gust) – 90 mph 

Frost Depth – 24 inches

16. Do I need a building permit for my project?

Yes. All buildings erected within the city limits of Farmington must be permitted. 

Buildings may not be placed over utility easements, in rights-of-ways or over the building line. 

Building permits and inspections are required for New commercial construction, public or private additions, renovations, New residential construction, Additions, Renovations. 

This includes the following common projects: Installing an antenna, Cell Towers, Storage sheds, Decks, Installing Patio Covers and Porch Covers, Siding, Swimming pools, Arbors Room, additions, Enclosing patios, Enclosing garages, Demolition of Buildings, Demolition of interior walls, Installation of signs, fence or wall, driveways, sidewalk, flatwork, playhouse, roof, windows and doors, etc. 

Permit applications may be obtained by visiting Community Development - Building Inspection Division. 

The office is located south of the City Hall, in the Annex Building on the 2nd floor.

17. Do I need a permit to install a fence or wall?

Yes. 

ALL fence work requires a permit. 

Permits are required for ALL walls or fences that are 18" or more in height. Replacement of a walls or fences. Any fence over 6' high MUST have an engineering scale drawn design. Retaining walls over 3' high MUST be designed by an engineer. 

• Planning and Zoning Division will need to be reviewed for Zoning and Setbacks. 
• Water and Waste Water Division will need to review for any main lines.

18. What will my permit cost?

Fees for building permits (those related to new structures, additions and remodels) vary based on construction valuation.  

Fees for secondary permits (i.e. electrical, plumbing or mechanical work) are fixed amounts that depend on the type of work proposed.

19. Landlord/Tenant Laws, Information, and Resources

https://www.santafenm.gov/landlordtenant